What is Koha?Koha is the Library’s new open source integrated library system (ILS / library catalog). Koha (the Maori word for reciprocal gift giving) was developed initially in New Zealand and is currently maintained by Koha developers and participating libraries from around the world. The UAMS Library philosophically supports open-source initiatives and looks forward to its new partnership with the Koha community.

What does using Koha mean for our patrons?Patrons will see a new catalog interface online at library.uams.edu that looks quite different from the current one, while maintaining the basic functionality of an online library catalog.

There will be improvements to our patron notification schedule that result in more timely reminders. Book check-out time will increase to three weeks with one renewal for a total of six weeks.

Will there be interruptions to catalog functions as Koha is being implemented?Having to learn to navigate a new system is a challenge in general. During the period of June 20-22, while the transition from our current ILS to the new system is underway, patrons may not renew books online. Patrons should call the Circulation Desk at (501) 686-5980 to have this done manually.

If there are shortcuts or bookmarks that patrons use to access specific parts of the catalog, they will need to be reset because those links are mapped to the old system.